IMP SHELTER

About

Imp Shelter sits at the heart of the Carter-Moriah range in New Hampshire's White Mountain National Forest, just 0.1 miles off the main Appalachian Trail ridge. The site offers a timber-framed shelter that was fully restored in 2021, along with four small shared tent platforms (accommodating 2 tents each) and one larger group platform (3-5 tents). Total capacity is approximately 12-17 people. Amenities include a composting privy, a dedicated dishwashing area, and metal bear boxes for food storage. A spring provides water, though all water must be filtered before drinking. During summer months, an AMC caretaker is on site to collect fees and maintain the area. Outside caretaker season, the site operates on a self-service basis with cash boxes for fee payment. The surrounding terrain is steep and densely forested with spruce and fir. Access requires hiking in via the Carter-Moriah Trail, making this a destination for backpackers and thru-hikers rather than car campers.

Directions

From Route 2 near Gorham, hike south on the Carter-Moriah Trail (Appalachian Trail). Imp Shelter is located on a 0.1-mile spur trail off the main ridge between North Carter Mountain and Mount Moriah.